For bipolar disorder, you may choose to see one or more of the following types of doctors:

Primary Care PhysicianPrimary care refers to general medical care for routine or chronic illnesses, preventive care and minor injuries. A primary care physician, often a doctor the patient frequently sees, is usually the first healthcare professional a patient consults. This doctor will examine the patient and, if needed, provide a referral to a specialist. The primary care physician typically works in private or group practice and may collaborate with other physicians as well as physicians’ assistants and nurse practitioners. This allows a patient to see a familiar backup physician or other health professional if the primary care physician is unavailable.

PsychiatristA psychiatrist evaluates and diagnoses mental disorders and is one of the primary physicians for bipolar patients. They can prescribe drugs to treat bipolar disorder and others such as depression or anxiety. Psychiatrists can also order brain scans to get a better sense of treatment options.

PsychologistPsychologists deal with patients’ mental and emotional health after assessing their patients through questionnaires and interviews. Though psychologists generally hold doctorate degrees, they are not medical doctors and cannot prescribe medication. Instead, they rely on counseling or psychotherapy. Bipolar patients often are treated with psychotherapy, in which they speak with a psychologist about their condition and learn ways to cope. Psychotherapy can also help family members understand the disorder and improve their communication and problem-solving skills.

Sleep SpecialistSleep specialists specialize in sleep medicine and the treatment of sleep disorders. They analyze family and medical history and use physical examinations or sleep studies in a sleep laboratory. Researchers have found that sleep plays a role in mood disorders and recovery, so a bipolar patient may choose to see a sleep specialist to alleviate sleep-loss complications.

Adolescent Medicine DoctorAn adolescent medicine doctor works exclusively with young adults and has training in areas such as reproductive health, eating disorders, drugs and mood changes. Many adolescent medicine doctors also have gynecologic experience, so young women sometimes opt to see these doctors, rather than both a pediatrician and a gynecologist. An adolescent medicine doctor could be consulted in a case of bipolar disorder because many patients begin exhibiting symptoms in their late teens.

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